Expert: Steve Michaud - 10/26/2000

Question
I just joined the Oakland Univ. cheer team and i love it. I am a Gymnist, turned cheerleader, I just started stunting and i have toss chair and toss hands, what should i get before working harder stunts? and what muscles must i build to toss better? If you could write back it would help me so much, thank you for your time,

Joshua
Oakland Univ.

Answer
Sorry it took so long to get this to you...it's the second time I've sent it!

First up you should start working extensions from hands and walk it hands.  Then you can start working on one legged and 1 footed stunts.

As far as contitioning...you should work quads and chest for better tosses, but be balanced with your weight room workouts.  Calves, shoulders, bis and tris will also help you become a better stunter.

I like to do rep toss drills 2 different ways.

1.  I do 3 sets of 5-10 tosses...connecting the landing of one toss to the start of the next

2.  I do 3 sets of 3-5 tosses...the girl bends with me, but doesn't really jump...so I have to do all the work...

you can also try using heavier tops...don't tell them that, but if they don't have as good a technical toss you will have to work harder to get the toss up there.

Good Luck and write back if you want more...or have other questions.

Steve